What is the key tenet of the ecological model?

The key tenet of the ecological model is the examination of larger societal influences on health. This model emphasizes that health is not determined solely by individual behaviors or choices but is also significantly influenced by broader social, economic, and environmental contexts.

By considering the various levels that influence an individual's health—such as community, societal, and policy-level factors—the ecological model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding health outcomes. This multi-faceted approach recognizes the interplay between individual health behaviors and the wider social environment, showing that changes at the community or societal level can significantly impact public health.

In contrast, focusing solely on individual health behaviors overlooks the influence of external factors, making it a narrow perspective. While economic factors and environmental impacts are certainly relevant, they are only two components of the wider social determinants of health that the ecological model addresses. Therefore, by prioritizing an analysis of societal influences, the model encourages interventions that can lead to lasting health improvements at multiple levels.